"Grab N Go" Feeds 235 Children Today in East Providence

The East Providence School Department reacted quickly to provide local families with lunch for children who wanted or needed one with schools closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Under the leadership of Food Services Director Melissa Read, some 235 children were fed a nutritious lunch today, Monday March 16, 2020.

Read's staff had to quickly put together a program and prepare and deliver food to several locations from Riverside to Rumford. Ham & Cheese Sandwiches, Turkey Club Wraps, Fresh fruit, Ham & Cheese subs, Bagel Fun lunch, yogurt Parfait/granola, milk and more.

Others like EPHS P.E. teacher Kristen Coutoulakis and School Resource Officers lent a hand as well.

"We had to prepare to freeze and store food when a school vacation week was ordered but when the Grab N Go program was put in place, our staff scrambled to get food ready again and prepare lunches," said Read. "We've all been here since 5:00 am."

Read and others didn't know what to expect on the first day and knew there would be a learning curve. "I'm pleased that it went well and there was cooperation and enthusiasm at each stop we went to," said Read.

The high school on Pawtucket Avenue was empty but the cafeteria kitchen was full of activity and smiles. "It had been pretty warm the last couple of days but this morning it was cold out there," laughed high school P.E department head Kristen Coutoulakis. "We warmed up pretty quick when we saw our kids."

The program will continue for the rest of the week as Chartwell workers were busy stocking up for tomorrow's lunch.